Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Vanilla Bean

Name: Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Vanilla Bean
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup bread flour; 1 1/2 cups sourdough starter (active and bubbly); 1 cup water; 1 tablespoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; Zest of 1 lemon; 1 cup fresh blueberries; 1 vanilla bean (split and scraped)

Highlighted under: Creative Sweet Recipe Ideas

Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Vanilla Bean is a delightful twist on traditional sourdough. This recipe combines the bright flavors of lemon and juicy blueberries with the rich aroma of vanilla bean, resulting in a loaf that's perfect for breakfast or as a sweet snack.

Created by

Sandra

Last updated on 2025-12-27T17:58:27.936Z

This Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Vanilla Bean recipe is inspired by the need for a refreshing, fruity bread that complements the tang of sourdough. The addition of lemon and blueberries creates a unique flavor profile that is perfect for any occasion.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright and zesty flavor complemented by sweet blueberries
The delightful aroma of vanilla bean enhances every slice
A perfect balance of tangy and sweet, ideal for breakfast or dessert

      

The Perfect Combination of Flavors

Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Vanilla Bean offers an invigorating blend of flavors that awaken your senses. The tangy notes of lemon provide a refreshing contrast to the natural sweetness of ripe blueberries, creating a harmony that is both satisfying and delightful. Each bite reveals a burst of fruity goodness balanced by the subtle acidity of sourdough, making this loaf a standout choice for any time of day.

Adding vanilla bean to the mix elevates the flavor profile even further. Its rich, floral aroma wraps around the loaf, enhancing the overall experience with its warm and comforting scent. This unique combination ensures that your baking not only tastes divine but also fills your kitchen with an enticing fragrance that will have everyone eager to take a slice.

Sourdough: A Healthier Bread Option

Sourdough bread is renowned for its health benefits, primarily due to the fermentation process that occurs during its preparation. This process helps break down gluten, making it easier to digest for many individuals. Additionally, sourdough has a lower glycemic index compared to other breads, which means it can help keep blood sugar levels stable and provide sustained energy throughout the day.

The inclusion of whole ingredients like blueberries and lemon zest not only adds flavor but also contributes essential nutrients. Blueberries are packed with antioxidants and vitamins, while lemon zest offers a boost of vitamin C. Together, they create a loaf that’s not just delicious, but also nourishing—perfect for those who want to indulge without compromising on health.

Tips for the Best Sourdough

To achieve the best results with your Lemon Blueberry Sourdough, it's crucial to ensure that your sourdough starter is active and bubbly before you begin. A well-fed starter will yield a lighter, airier loaf with a perfect rise. If your starter has been in the fridge, make sure to feed it at least a day in advance to awaken its potency.

Another tip is to handle the dough gently, especially when incorporating the blueberries. Overworking the dough can lead to a denser loaf and may cause the blueberries to burst, bleeding their color into the dough. Patience is key during the folding and shaping stages to maintain the integrity of both the dough and the fruit.

Ingredients

For the Sourdough Bread

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup bread flour
1 1/2 cups sourdough starter (active and bubbly)
1 cup water
1 tablespoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
Zest of 1 lemon
1 cup fresh blueberries
1 vanilla bean (split and scraped)

Combine all ingredients to create your dough.

Instructions

Mixing the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, bread flour, sourdough starter, and water. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. Add salt, sugar, lemon zest, and the seeds from the vanilla bean, mixing until incorporated.

Incorporating Blueberries

Gently fold in the fresh blueberries, being careful not to crush them. The dough will be sticky.

First Rise

Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it rise at room temperature for about 4 hours, or until doubled in size.

Shaping the Loaf

Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a floured surface. Shape it into a round loaf and place it in a floured proofing basket. Cover and let it rise for another hour.

Baking

Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Place a Dutch oven inside to heat. When ready, carefully transfer the loaf to the hot Dutch oven, cover, and bake for 30 minutes.

Remove the lid and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden brown.

Let the bread cool completely before slicing.

Serving Suggestions

Lemon Blueberry Sourdough is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. For breakfast, serve it toasted with a pat of butter and a drizzle of honey to enhance its natural sweetness. Alternatively, enjoy it alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack. The bright flavors of the lemon and blueberries make it an excellent choice for brunch gatherings as well.

For dessert, consider pairing slices of this sourdough with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy textures complement the tangy bread beautifully and create a memorable sweet treat that everyone will love. Don't forget to garnish with extra blueberries or lemon zest for a beautiful presentation!

Storage Tips

To keep your Lemon Blueberry Sourdough fresh, store it in a paper bag at room temperature for up to three days. This method allows the bread to breathe and maintains its crusty exterior. If you plan to keep it longer, consider wrapping it in plastic wrap and placing it in the freezer, where it can last for up to three months.

When ready to enjoy frozen sourdough, simply thaw it at room temperature or pop it in the toaster for a quick warm-up. This way, you can savor the delicious flavors of this unique loaf anytime you have a craving, without the need for extensive preparation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, frozen blueberries can be used, but do not thaw them before incorporating into the dough to avoid excess moisture.

→ How do I store the sourdough bread?

Store the bread in a paper bag at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I substitute the vanilla bean?

Yes, you can use 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract in place of the vanilla bean.

→ What kind of sourdough starter should I use?

Use an active and bubbly sourdough starter for the best results.